Souvenir Gavel from Libby Prison Museum, 1889-1899

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Artifact Overview

In 1889, the notorious Libby Prison--which had been moved from Richmond, Virginia, to Chicago--opened to the public as a museum. Visitors could buy souvenirs said to be made of wood from the prison. This gavel belonged to former Union Army Captain Milton Russell, who spent a year in harsh conditions at Libby Prison as a prisoner of war.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Gavel (Ceremonial mallet)

Date Made

1889-1899

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

37.109.34

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Sella Russell Cole.

Material

Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 1.625 in
Width: 2.5 in
Length: 10 in

Souvenir Gavel from Libby Prison Museum, 1889-1899